Johnny Russell EXCLUSIVE I MLS icon hints at next club after Kansas exit

Johnny Russell opens up about his career journey in Major League Soccer (MLS), his departure from Sporting Kansas City after seven incredible years, and what’s next for the Scottish forward.

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Join the PLZ Soccer team as Peter Martin, Tom McManus, and Ryan chat with Johnny Russell about everything from his future plans to the evolution of soccer in America and how he’s stayed true to his Scottish roots despite his time abroad.

📌 1. Johnny Russell’s Sporting KC Legacy

Seven transformative years at Sporting Kansas City, including three years as captain.

The emotions behind leaving the club he calls home and his plans to continue playing in MLS.

Reflections on the heartfelt tributes from fans and the club.

📌 2. MLS: Then and Now

How the league has grown in quality, professionalism, and its appeal to young talent.

Why MLS is no longer seen as a “retirement league” and how teams are building for the future.

Insights into how football’s rising popularity in the U.S. is competing with traditional sports like American football.

📌 3. Johnny Russell Becoming A US Citizen

Balancing career aspirations with family life and the significance of pursuing U.S. citizenship for his children.

Why Johnny feels deeply connected to his new home while cherishing his Scottish heritage.

📌 4. Being Scottish in the USA

The challenges of adapting to American culture while holding onto his accent, slang, and humor.
Hilarious anecdotes about navigating language differences and how his teammates reacted to his thick Scottish brogue.

📌 5. Soccer’s Growth in America

The impact of youth academies and increased participation at grassroots levels.

Why concussions and injuries are steering families toward soccer over traditional sports like American football.

Johnny Russell Quotes

On Leaving Sporting Kansas City:

“It wasn’t something I wanted—I wanted to stay. But I’ll always cherish the relationships I built and the love I got from the fans.”

On MLS Evolution:

“The league is unrecognizable from when I arrived seven years ago. Every year, the standard improves, with younger talent coming in and teams moving away from the old retirement league model.”
On Soccer’s Growth in the U.S.:

“The rise in kids playing soccer is incredible. It’s no longer just about the big sports like American football. Soccer is becoming part of the culture.”
On Keeping His Identity:

“I’ve kept my Scottish accent. I’d hate myself if I lost it. But yeah, I’ve had to slow it down—and sometimes even say ‘trash’ and ‘locker room.’”
On Family and Citizenship:

“America has been great for me and my family. Getting citizenship for my kids is something we’ve always wanted, but Scotland will always be home in my heart.”
Audience Hooks

🎥 Why You Should Watch:

MLS fans: Get behind-the-scenes insights from Johnny Russell on how the league is evolving and why it’s no longer a retirement destination.
Scottish expats: Laugh along with Johnny’s stories about balancing American culture with his Scottish roots.

Soccer parents: Learn how soccer is becoming a preferred sport in the U.S. and why academies are thriving.

💬 “What’s next for Johnny Russell after Sporting Kansas City? Find out his plans and what he really thinks of MLS!”

💬 “Can soccer overtake American football as the U.S.’s sport of the future? Johnny Russell shares his thoughts!”

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